It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Anna Maria Bellini Kavals on Thursday, February 27, 2025. While our hearts are heavy with grief, we also celebrate the beautiful life Anna lived.

Anna was born September 18, 1954, in Timmins, Ontario, to loving parents Ugo and Elsa Bellini. She was later joined by her sister, Paula Bellini, who was very much the “little sister” and a cherished friend throughout their adulthood. Anna pursued a career in education. She was educated at the University of Western Ontario and the Institute of Child Studies at the University of Toronto. Anna dedicated 30 years to teaching special education at Saints Martha and Mary.

After moving to Mississauga, Anna joined the High Park Curling Club, not knowing how fateful that decision would be. Curling became a lifelong passion for Anna; she played in various leagues and volunteered to organize events, including the Sweethearts Bonspiel for the club's 100th anniversary and helping with the club's junior program. Additionally, Anna volunteered to maintain Sue’s memorial garden.

One club league, however, was extra special. Anna met her loving husband of 39 years, Robert Kavals, in the Grand Mixed Bonspiel. From then on, Tuesday nights became their ‘date nights’ as they played in the mixed league together for over 30 years. Despite having a number of hobbies and passions her greatest pride and joy was her family and being a proud mother to her two children, Bennett and Leandra Kavals. Both now share their parents passion for curling.

She lived life in retirement with a full schedule, actively volunteering in the community, helping with the Special Olympics Ontario curling and at the Toronto Textile Museum. She loved to sew, crochet, and knit. She always had a new project on the go, often making hats or blankets to donate to babies in the hospital. Additionally, if someone she knew was having a baby, she was quick to get the needles going. She was dedicated to her book club and always eager to explore new cycling routes within the city or up at the cottage. Anna was passionate about cooking and was always proud to share her Italian traditions with those around her.

She will be remembered for her zest for life, her thirst for knowledge, and her love for her family and friends.
A visitation at Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel will be held on Friday, March 7th from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. A celebration of life will follow in the Spring.

In lieu of flowers, if desired, the family would appreciate donations be made to Special Olympics Ontario – Curling and/or the Alzheimer Society of Canada in Anna’s honor.